TECH TALK: Delving into Audi's surprising new sidepods

F1 technical expert Sam Collins offered insights into Audi's striking new sidepod design during the opening day of the 2026 pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. As the new generation of Formula 1 cars hit the track, technical innovations under the fresh regulations were a major talking point. Collins, from F1 TV, took a detailed walk through the pit lane, specifically highlighting Audi's surprising sidepods as a key development that immediately caught his eye. His analysis provides an early look at how teams are interpreting and pushing the boundaries of the 2026 technical rules.